Everton will now be expected to replace Jarrad Branthwaite with Michael Keane for the remainder of the campaign.
It was confirmed earlier in the week that Branthwaite would miss the rest of the season following his latest hamstring injury.
That has left David Moyes with a big decision to make for the remaining five games, with European qualification on the line.
Let us know your prediction and goal scorers! 🤔
Three huge points on the line in the race for Europe… 😬
Michael Keane of Everton celebrates after scoring a goal to make it 1-0 during the Premier League match between Everton and West Ham United.
Credit: Getty Images/Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA
However, Keane has emerged as the clear favourite to replace Branthwaite following Thursday’s contract announcement.
Newcastle United v Everton - Premier League
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Michael Keane clear Everton choice to replace Jarrad Branthwaite
It has now been confirmed that Keane has signed a one-year contract extension to keep him at Everton until next summer.
The new deal is an indication of just how highly Moyes and the club rate the 33-year-old defender.
How would you line up for West Ham, with confirmation needed on Beto’s fitness… 😬
Another big decision needs to be made at centre-back, too! 🫣
Everton predicted XI to face West Ham United.
Credit: GRV Media
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It has been a season to forget for Branthwaite, but it has provided Keane with a much greater role than he was probably expecting for the 2025/26 term.
Keane has already made 28 appearances (24 starts) in the Premier League alone this season.
That number will now be expected to rise as the club’s faith in him makes Saturday’s team selection relatively easy.
Jake O’Brien has admitted he wants to return to centre-back, but for now he is needed out at right-back.
The Irishman has been utilised by Moyes amid the 62-year-old’s ongoing lack of trust in Nathan Patterson.
So, there will be no real surprises when Keane is named as Everton’s direct replacement for Branthwaite on Saturday afternoon.
Keane has only one major drawback
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall has waxed lyrical about Keane, having been surprised by just how good the defender really is.
The 33-year-old has provided Everton with three league goals this season and been solid at the back.
Perhaps his only drawback is the lack of pace on display when Keane and James Tarkowski are the two starting centre-backs.
With O’Brien at right-back, there is not a great deal of speed in the Everton backline.
However, the Blues have managed without Branthwaite for most of the season and they will continue to do so over the next five games.
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